Conducting an Unbiased Student Investigation

Our Protective Services Team (PST) has developed a Tip Sheet on Conducting an Unbiased Student Investigation, offering practical guidance to help principals and vice-principals conduct investigations that are fair, unbiased and procedurally sound. It emphasizes the importance of self-awareness around unconscious bias, historical context and maintaining neutrality throughout the process. The resource outlines key steps for investigations and searches, grounded in legislation, board policies and human rights principles. By applying these practices, school leaders can help lead investigations carried out with professionalism, respect and integrity.

Leading the Way: Inspiring Future Principals

To support the development of future leaders, we are offering an informal 45-minute information session on the pathway to the Principal’s Qualification Program (PQP) for educators who are curious about formal school leadership. The sessions will take place online on Wednesday, November 19 at 8:00 a.m. or 4:00 p.m. EST. It is a free session. Please share this opportunity widely within your networks!

Local Government Week

Ontario will celebrate Local Government Week from October 20–24. School trustees have participated in this event for many years, aiming to increase youth and public awareness about the important role local governments play in our communities. Trustees may be looking for opportunities to visit schools, visit classrooms (Gr. 5 and 10), offer classroom resources and/or meet with parents. If you are approached, we encourage you to seek direction from your supervisory officer about specific board protocols for engaging with trustees.

Quote to Ponder

“Wear gratitude like a cloak and it will feed every corner of your life.” – Remi

Media

• Ontario boosts student nutrition funding
• Trustees encourage Premier to reconsider speed enforcement in school zones
• Ottawa and Ontario sign agreement on minority language education
• Families decry charges against truant teens
• Parents remain divided about return to police in schools
• How to make schools inclusive for students with Autism
• Government blocks public livestreams of school board meetings
• Despite concerns, more students using AI for learning

Queen’s Park Update

The House is in recess until October 20.